Located in East Aurora, the Rural Outreach Center (ROC) provides numerous programs that help people help themselves. These programs include support groups for adults, children’s initiatives such as the successful snack pack and school reading readiness programs, and much more.

“Our outreach is expanding every day to enable us to meet the needs of more participants,” said ROC Program Director Sue Giovino. “This could not be possible without the myriad of volunteers that already offer their time, talents and hearts to the ROC, but we’re requesting more volunteer support so we can do even more in Western New York’s rural communities.”

To celebrate National Volunteer Month in April, the ROC has compiled a list detailing volunteer opportunities that currently exist at the organization. The following list represents several opportunities for individuals to immediately come on board and assist the ROC in meeting needs and changing lives.

• Can you help with furniture and appliance pick up?
• Are you handy with small home repairs?
• Would you enjoy filling a backpack with healthy food for a child who may lack it over the weekend?
• Are you a good shopper? You can help the ROC find deals on backpacks and winter wear for children as the school season approaches.
• Do you have an area of expertise or a life skill that you could teach?
• Do you like to serve food, chat and encourage people? If so, you may want to volunteer at a monthly community dinner sponsored by Pathways Christian Fellowship.
• Do you love children? The ROC has a parenting program that offers much-needed parental respite, and babysitters are always needed.
• Are you passionate about pre-school education? Meet with a family once a week, for a half hour, to help guide them with reading, creative educational play and other activities that will help children as they enter school.
• Are you a young mom or single parent? Would you like to offer support, ideas and encouragement to others walking this walk?
• The ROC is always in need of paper products – paper towels, toilet paper, tissues, diapers, baby wipes and feminine products — that are not covered by food stamps.
• Would you like to become a friend/mentor to a participant in a ROC program? Many families simply need communication and encouragement on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Join SWAT (Social Worker Assistance Team) and have the privilege of offering consistent support at the convenience of your schedule.

If you would like to become a ROC volunteer in any of the capacities listed or have an idea that would help the ROC assist participants in a holistic way, please call Giovino at 240-2220.